US Patent 7921685 Latch assembly with security bracket

A latch assembly for releasably securing a closure element with a striker element in a closed position. The latch assembly consists of first and second latch elements mounted to a housing for movement relative to each other and the housing, with the first latch element being movable relative to the housing between a latched position and a release position, and cooperating structure on the release lever for moving the second latch element relative to the housing and, in response thereto, causing the first latch element to move from its latched position to its release position. A guard plate is positioned between the housing and the first latch element to more securely retain the striker element and prevent tampering or theft.